Tourist Attractions in Wellington, Wellington

Tourist Attractions in Wellington Overview

Botanical Garden
The Botanic Gardens (26ha) lie in the center of the city on the Kelburn Hills. It covers about 25 hectares of land on the side of the hill between Thorndon and Kelburn. This popular Botanical Garden features 25 hectares of protected native forest, conifers, plant collections and seasonal floras. The Botanic Gardens were opened in 1869. The walk through the gardens ends at the north exit in Glenmore Street, which has retained its Victorian wrought-iron gates and porter's lodge. These large sculptures and carvings are located throughout the garden. These sculptures are done by artists such as Henry Moore, Andrew Drummond and Chris Booth.
National Library
The National Library is one of the main tourist attractions in Wellington. The main purpose of National Library is to conserve and enrich the diverse tradition and culture of the country. The National Library in Wellington was established in the year 1965 when the General Assembly and the National Library Service was combined together. The library now has over 250,000 volumes, including a very valuable and almost complete collection of accounts of travel and discovery in the south Pacific. The National Library in Wellington consists of an autonomous governance body which is a unique feature. It has around 15 school service centers and 3 curriculum information service centers throughout the country.
Wellington Zoo
The Wellington Zoo is the oldest Zoo in New Zealand. The first animal, a lion was housed in the botanic gardens along with some more animals. The Wellington Zoo in Wellington is home to different species of mammals, birds and reptiles from various parts of the world. The animals are kept in family sized units amidst a natural environment. There are around 500 species of animals in the zoo. There is also a huge pool for sea lions and a large aviary. The Wellington Zoo in Wellington remains open from 9:30 AM in the morning till 5:00 PM in the evening. There is a moderate entry fee in the zoo.
The Opera House
The Opera House in Wellington was established in the year 1912 and is the largest picture theatre in Australasia. The Opera House has staged wide range of local and international dramas. Popular theater groups from all over the world have also performed in the theater. The Opera House is the main center of the Royal New Zealand Ballet which is the best dance troop in the country.